Kapo keen to make mark

Olivier Kapo has expressed his joy at joining Celtic after being persuaded to move by Jean-Joel Perrier-Doumbe.

Last Updated: 04/11/10 5:44pm

Olivier Kapo has expressed his delight at joining Celtic after being persuaded to move by the Hoops' Scottish Cup final hero Jean-Joel Perrier-Doumbe.

The midfielder sealed a move to Celtic earlier on Thursday on a free transfer after being released from his contract with Wigan over the summer.

He has signed an 18-month deal subject to international clearance being granted and is now looking forward to the challenge ahead.

After finishing his first training session with his new team-mates, the Frenchman revealed he had consulted an old friend when he heard Celtic were interested.

Kapo began his career with Auxerre where he met Perrier-Doumbe, whose claim to fame during his frustrating two-year spell at Parkhead was scoring the winner against Dunfermline in the 2007 cup final at Hampden.

"I know the club quite well through the Champions League and through the Old Firm derby, which you can't miss," said Kapo.

"Also I had a friend who used to play for Celtic - Perrier-Doumbe.

"I spent 11 years at Auxerre and Jean-Joel and I were youngsters there, we grew up there.

"He is like a brother to me. We spent holidays together and were very close.

Couldn't refuse

"Before I came here I called him and asked about Celtic and he told me good things about the club.

"He told me it was a good team with lots of fans, a big stadium and the staff were good.

"I have played for Juventus, a big team, but I think Celtic is very, very big.

"It is a great club with a lot of history. So when the opportunity was given to me, I couldn't refuse."

Kapo has set his sights on an extended stay at Celtic and is determined to make his mark as soon as possible.

He said: "I heard of Celtic's interest a month ago and now my wish is to stay here as long as possible and perform as well as I can.

"I will give my best, as I did for Auxerre, Monaco and Juventus.

"I am an attacking midfielder and my role is to create and score when the opportunity arises.